Nothing About Us Without Us: Supporting Disability Policy in Wisconsin

Policy is strongest when it’s shaped by the people it affects most. That belief drives Inclusa Foundation’s partnership with the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD) through the Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program. As one of our inaugural strategic funding initiatives, the program opens doors for people with disabilities and their families to bring their lived experience into state policy work. By placing Fellows and Interns in meaningful roles within Wisconsin’s state agencies, it helps build lasting leadership pathways and strengthens connections across communities.

During year-one of the program, Jenny Price of Verona served in the Division of Medicaid Services where she focused on long-term care for people of all ages. She used her background in communication to enhance trainings in Mental Health for people with Intellectual Disabilities. Before her Fellowship came to a close, Jenny accepted a full-time position within the department. Her journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets opportunity.

Nicki Vander Meulen of Madison served in the Department of Workforce Development working in the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. She contributed to key projects aimed at improving employment opportunities and outcomes for individuals with disabilities. One of her main goals was to make materials more accessible to all individuals. She achieved this using plain language text in materials, making it more comprehensible for everyone.

Year two of the program is underway with two new Fellows taking placements at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Tiffany Schanno of Sheboygan, WI will serve her Fellowship at the Division of Medicaid Services. She will be contributing to projects on mental health, competitive integrated employment, and strength-based assessment tools.

Ranjit Sighn of Menomonee Falls, WI was also chosen for this program year. He will serve in the Division of Quality Assurance where he will contribute to key projects aimed at evaluating the use of technology in residential settings, consumer education and communication, and rules related to adult family homes.

Beth Swedeen, BPDD Executive Director praised the quality of the Fellows, saying, "We are thrilled to welcome Tiffany and Ranjit to our second year of the program.  Among a highly competitive statewide pool of candidates, both Tiffany and Ranjit bring an exceptional understanding of public policy, along with lived experience of programs and policies. Their contributions will surely have a meaningful impact on the communities we serve." 

The Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program not only develops future leaders by building skills and opening career opportunities, it also strengthens the connections between people, families, and policymakers. By focusing on individuals and family members with lived experience, the program reflects the very heart of Commonunity®, building stronger communities when everyone has a voice in shaping the systems that affect them. Because when lived experience leads the way, lasting change isn’t forced—it’s nurtured from the strength of communities and carried forward by those who live it.

To learn more about the Wisconsin Disability Public Policy Leadership Program — and explore future opportunities to participate, visit their website.